[Obituary] Anime Director Tsutomu Shibayama, Longtime Director of Doraemon Films, Dies at 84 from Lung Cancer

Anime director Tsutomu Shibayama, known for directing the Doraemon film series for more than two decades, has passed away at the age of 84. The news was announced by the animation studio AJIADO.

Tsutomu Shibayama, Veteran Doraemon Film Director, Dies at 84

On March 17, the animation production company AJIADO updated its official website to report that former company president and anime director Tsutomu Shibayama died on March 6, 2026, due to lung cancer. He was 84 years old.

The announcement on the official website stated:
“Our former President and Representative Director, Tsutomu Shibayama, passed away on March 6, 2026, due to lung cancer. He was 84 years old.”

The statement also introduced his career achievements. Shibayama served as animation director on works such as Dokonjō Gaeru and Ganso Tensai Bakabon. After that, he directed the Doraemon film series for more than 20 years. He also worked as chief director for the television anime Doraemon.

Throughout his career, Shibayama directed or served as general director for numerous popular titles, including Nintama Rantarō, Chibi Maruko chan, and ZORORI the Naughtier Hero.

The announcement concluded with a message of gratitude:
“We sincerely thank everyone for the kindness and warm support shown to him during his lifetime. The funeral was held privately with close family members in accordance with the wishes of the bereaved family. We respectfully decline flowers, condolence gifts, and visits. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date. Further details, including the date and location, will be announced once they are finalized.”

Source : ORICON NEWS